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Topics › The first year

9 to 12 months

Almost one

2 min read Sources: AAP and CDC guidanceChecked October 2026

The short version

  • First words, first steps, and strong opinions about food are common now.
  • The 12-month checkup covers growth, development, and vaccines. Bring your questions.
  • Switch to whole milk around 12 months unless your doctor says otherwise.

You made it to the edge of the first year. That is no small thing, for your baby or for you. Around now you may see first words, first steps, and a baby with strong opinions about food. There is a one-year checkup ahead, and a few changes to know about. None of it has to be perfect.

What to know

Milestones come in their own order

By their first birthday many babies pull to stand, cruise along furniture, wave, point, and say a word or two beyond mama and dada. Every baby is on their own timeline. Share what you are seeing, and any concerns, with your pediatrician.

The 12-month checkup covers a lot

At the one-year visit the doctor checks growth and development, updates vaccines, and may test for anemia or lead. It is a good time to ask about tantrums, feeding, sleep, and anything that has been on your mind. Bring your questions.

New foods and a switch to whole milk

Around 12 months most babies can move from formula to whole milk (keep it whole, not low-fat, until age 2 unless your doctor says otherwise) and eat more of what the family eats. Skip sugary drinks. Offer water and plain milk.

From the experts

These go straight to the source.

When to call someone

Keep whole milk, not low-fat, until age 2 unless your pediatrician advises otherwise, and avoid sugary drinks. Tell your doctor if your baby has lost skills they once had, or is not pointing, babbling, or trying to stand by their first birthday. Early questions are always worth asking.

Find a pediatricianSearch for a pediatrician near you.
Early intervention: Your state's programFree evaluation and support for babies and toddlers under 3. You can call yourself.
What next?

You have reached the far edge of what these pages cover, which means you have come a long way. If a question about how your little one is growing is on your mind, there is a gentle page for that. So is a moment to just be proud.

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